Disney: Critics rave over ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ following world premiere

Yahoo Finance entertainment reporter Allie Canal breaks down the latest reviews of James Cameron's long-awaited "Avatar: The Way of Water".

Video transcript

DAVE BRIGGS: In other entertainment news, early reactions in from critics on "Avatar 2." I can't wait to see this film. The first one of the best selling movies of all time. What are we hearing?

ALLIE CANAL: You're not alone in this. The reaction has been pretty surreal. Just a little taste-- phenomenal, visual masterpiece, mind blowing. There seems to be a lot of confidence in James Cameron, which was largely expected. And for Cameron, too, it's been reported that this film has to land in the top four or five movies of all time, just to break even. So I'm sure he wants to see that enthusiasm. Theaters as well, ticket sales are down about 30% compared to 2019. So if "Avatar 2" can add to that momentum into 2023, that's a great thing for them.

There are some downside risks here, one being the fact, 3D, I'm not sure if people really are into 3D as much as they were 13 years ago once the original film debuted. That's also another risk. Are people still connected to these characters? But considering how well the re-release did, I think we're going to have a slam dunk.

DAVE BRIGGS: Surprised they pulled it. I thought they would have kept it in theaters a little longer. It had to top 2 billion, you said? 2 billion?

ALLIE CANAL: Yes.

DAVE BRIGGS: Worldwide?

ALLIE CANAL: The top four or five grossing movies of all time, so-- to break even. So that's [INAUDIBLE].

DAVE BRIGGS: In its favor, it's a movie you have to see in the theaters. It's not one that really-- I mean, it'll be fine at home. But the theatrical experience is what you need to appreciate this film. I cannot wait. Allie Canal, good to see you Thank you.